Menopause refers to the permanent cessation of menstruation in a woman due to the ovaries' decreased production of estrogen and progesterone. It's designated as the time when there have been no menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months and represents the end of fertility. Though it naturally occurs with age, menopause may also come on suddenly as a result of a surgical procedure, treatment of a disease, or illness. In these cases it is referred to as induced menopause. In some women, the decreased sex hormone production associated with menopause may be associated with symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and trouble sleeping. |